Claire Harmer

Based in Torbay with her family, Claire is passionate about art, nature and people, she’s in her element when these come together. A teacher and artist, she explores painting, mosaic, printmaking, book binding and most recently, illustration.

Claire has been working closely with the House of Tombo, conceptualising characters such as Bruce the Moose, Fearless Fairy and Daring Dragon for the enjoyment of young readers.

Why cabbage tree? You may wonder. Cabbage trees hold precious meaning for Claire. They’re abundant along the New Zealand coasts, a place where Claire’s artistic journey became more than an idea, it became a necessity. With her sketchbook in hand and opportunities to work in oils in homes and community spaces, Claire painted at every opportunity. Cabbage trees (Torbay palm) evoke such memories of her time there, always bringing a smile to her face and inspiration to create.